Ka’ena Point State Park Northern Access Road
Oahu's wild west coast to the island's edge
This abandoned paved road turned 4WD track follows Oahu’s northwest shoreline to Ka’ena Point, where the Hawaiian Islands’ westernmost tip meets crashing Pacific swells and endangered Hawaiian monk seals haul out on protected beaches. The route starts where Farrington Highway ends and deteriorates into a rough coastal track through kiawe thorns and salt spray, with the old Oahu Railway roadbed providing the most reliable path when high surf makes the beach route impassable.
Easy to moderate difficulty for stock 4WD vehicles, but bring a full-size spare since kiawe thorns are notorious tire killers. Winter months (November-March) bring massive surf that can wash over the track, making summer the safer choice. No permits required but respect the wildlife protection areas and don’t disturb monk seals or nesting seabirds. The payoff is Hawaii’s most remote accessible point, where you can watch whales migrate and experience Oahu’s wild side without the crowds of Diamond Head or Hanauma Bay.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Moderate |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Overland Route |
| Surface | Mixed |
| Features | Historic, Remote, Scenic |
| Length (miles) | 5 mi / 8 km |
| Duration | Half day |
| Max elevation (ft) | 100 ft |
| Best season | April-October |
| Minimum vehicle | Stock 4WD |
| Nearest town | Waialua, Hawaii |
| Land manager | Hawaii State Parks |
| Permit required | No |
| Cell service | None |
| Water crossings | No |
| Dispersed camping | No |
| Start coordinates | |
| End coordinates | |
| Copy both for Google Maps directionsClick to copy the directions URL · or open it directly in a new tab | |
| Find on Google | Search on Google → |
Location
Trail Conditions
No recent condition reports. Be the first to post one.
Log in to post a condition report.
Frequently asked questions
Can a stock 4WD SUV handle this trail?
Yes, a stock 4WD vehicle can complete the Ka'ena Point access road. The mixed surface has some rocky sections but nothing requiring significant clearance or modifications.
Is the trail accessible year-round or are there seasonal closures?
The trail is open year-round, but April through October offers the best conditions with less rain and calmer ocean conditions. Winter months can bring rough surf and muddy sections.
Do I need permits or pay fees to drive to Ka'ena Point?
No permits or fees are required for vehicle access to Ka'ena Point State Park. However, respect all posted wildlife protection areas and stay on designated routes.
What's the most challenging part of the 5-mile drive?
The final mile before the point has the roughest terrain with loose rocks and potential washouts from ocean spray. Take it slow and watch for soft sand pockets near the shoreline.
Is there any cell service along the route to Ka'ena Point?
Cell service is nonexistent along the entire route and at Ka'ena Point. Plan accordingly and inform others of your travel plans before heading out.